But when I was taken ill later on in 2008, I became depressed and lost interest in going to the cathedral. I slept at daytime even though I had musical and computing talents that could brighten my days.
Now that I've gotten my mojo back, let me assert that depression is real, a disease actually. According to Mayo Clinic, depression symptoms are:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
- Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
- Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
- Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
- Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
Not that I'm a medical expert, but I think we can cure the minor depression we sometimes feel by praying, engaging in a hobby, going for a walk or simply talking to a friend.
For those having major depression, seeing a psychiatrist is what I'd recommend them to do. And I urge those staying with them to cheer them up with kind words, if I may borrow words from Proverbs 12:25.
**********************
RECOMMENDATION: If you've enjoyed this story, you might also enjoy "How I Have Gotten My Mojo Back".
